We are delighted to announce that Madelline Hare, Lucy Allison, Mason Planner and Eva Sherring (pictured L-R) have been selected as our 2024 College Captains. As they look forward to their roles, they reflect on what motivated them to apply for the role and the challenges that they might face, as a College Captain
Madelline Hare
Why did you apply?
I applied to be a College Captain to represent the values of our school and to make a difference in the Cornish community. I also feel that I have the values to make a difference at our school.
What do you imagine the role to be?
I imagine the role to be fun and a good way to involve everyone in decision-making. I like being able to represent the school and find ways to improve the small things.
What do you hope to achieve?
I hope to achieve some improvements in particular areas at Cornish and to leave a legacy at the school through changes that will remain forever.
What do you think some of the challenges will be?
One challenge I am expecting to face is a lot of commitment outside school, as I am heavily involved in sport during the week and on weekends. However, I have good time management so I will be able to manage this.
What are the skills/attributes that you’ll bring to the role?
I am hard-working and determined, which rubs off on others and encourages not only me, but those around me, to strive for change and development at Cornish.
How do you want to feel about the role at the end of 2024?
I want to feel proud of the changes that we as a group have made together and know that we have made a positive impact on the Cornish community.
Lucy Allison
Why did you apply?
I applied for the role as a College Captain as I know the effect a good role model can have on people and would like to be that person for others. Having also moved schools I have seen first-hand, the positive impact a school such as Cornish can have on kids. I would like to give back to the school by representing it through this role.
What do you imagine the role to be?
I imagine the role to be enjoyable and exciting whilst also bringing new responsibilities and opportunities. I also imagine the role to be a big learning opportunity and am looking forward to meeting new people through the year.
What do you hope to achieve?
I hope to have a positive impact on students and teachers that continues to benefit the school even after I graduate. I would particularly like to support the mental health area of the school through various workshops and activities.
What do you think some of the challenges will be?
I think it will be challenging to get people on board with certain things, as well as managing the various activities and responsibilities, however I’m looking forward to the challenge.
What are the skills/attributes that you’ll bring to the role?
I am a confident person who is a good listener and communicator. I have had experience in leadership positions before and I consider myself a very approachable person. I also have various interests such as art and sport which will help me to engage a wide range of students.
How do you want to feel about the role at the end of 2024?
At the end of 2024 I would like to feel like I have left the school better than when I took up the role, as well as feeling that I have benefitted students, not just in my year as a captain, but in subsequent years. I would also like to feel that I have grown personally.
Mason Planner
Why did you apply?
I applied for the role of College Captain because I feel I have a lot to offer in improving the school, and as a leader, I will aim to make Cornish a better and more enjoyable place to attend every day.
What do you imagine the role to be?
I imagine the role will come with some additional expectations and responsibilities, but I also believe it provides opportunity to have an impact on the school, through leadership and new ideas.
What do you hope to achieve?
During my time as a College Captain, I hope to be able to listen to students and staff and implement changes that they want to see in the school. I aim to increase school spirit and promote participation and representation of the school in events such as Southern Independent Schools’ sport and other interschool opportunities.
What do you think some of the challenges will be?
I think there is always a chance that I may encounter people who are resistant to change, so I would have to be accommodating of everyone when trying to implement something new, or when working with large groups of students.
What are the skills/attributes that you’ll bring to the role?
I believe I bring strong leadership skills such as organisation and communication, which have been built from experience in roles such as captaining sport teams, and holding a position on the student council.
How do you want to feel about the role at the end of 2024?
I would like to feel that I have had a positive impact on other students at the school. If I can finish my time as a College Captain knowing that I made at least a small difference to people’s time here, I will take that as a success.
Eva Sherring
Why did you apply?
I applied to be a College Captain as I want to make a difference within our College community. I want to be a strong voice for my peers and advocate for their needs and concerns. Additionally, I believe that being a College Captain will provide me with the opportunity to develop my leadership skills and contribute to the growth and success of our College.
What do you imagine the role to be?
I imagine the role of College Captain to be a position of leadership and responsibility. As a College Captain, I see myself being a bridge between the students and the teachers, advocating for their needs and concerns. Additionally, I see this role as an opportunity to organise events and initiatives that promote unity, inclusivity, and overall growth within our College community.
What do you hope to achieve?
In order to ease the transition of Year 7 students into secondary school, I would like to establish a buddy system with the Year 12 students. As they will have a Year 12 leader to look up to and communicate with and be someone who can offer guidance, this will help the wellness of the Year 7 students. I think the community will welcome this.
What do you think some of the challenges will be?
Since I’m not used to speaking in front of large crowds, public speaking presents the largest obstacle for me, but I hope to overcome this by the end of 2024. I can’t wait to grow these skills and hope the nerves fade away, as my public speaking confidence and experience grow. Finding a way to balance my workload between school with my leadership responsibilities in Year 12 could also be a struggle. Nonetheless, I am sure that I can do both with good time management and assistance from my peers and teachers.
What are the skills/attributes that you’ll bring to the role?
Some of the skills and attributes that I will bring to the role include being respectful to others and being approachable. I also have a natural ability to connect with others. Additionally, I am highly organised and able to effectively manage my time, which will allow me to fulfil my responsibilities as a College Captain efficiently.
How do you want to feel about the role at the end of 2024?
I am excited for what 2024 may look like and the new challenges I will face. I hope to feel confident and accomplished in my role, knowing that I have made a positive impact and contributed to the success of the school. Additionally, I want to feel more comfortable and at ease in high-pressure situations, knowing that I have developed the necessary skills and experience to handle them effectively.
